Japanese Style Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is enjoyed around the world, but be sure to try the Japanese-style version as well. The crisp texture of asparagus pairs well with the savory saltiness of bacon, creating a delightful dish.

Japanese Style Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is, as the name suggests, a dish made by wrapping asparagus with bacon and then cooking it. Some characteristics of the Japanese style include using tender bacon, cutting the asparagus into bite-sized pieces, and cooking it in a pan.

The most common seasoning is quite simple, taking advantage of the savory taste of the bacon itself and just sprinkling a pinch of black pepper. Of course, if you want to add a Japanese twist to the flavor, you can incorporate a small amount of mirin and soy sauce toward the end of the cooking process.

In Japan, this dish is commonly enjoyed as a side dish or as a tasty addition to a bento (lunch box). It is easy to make, so feel free to try making it at home as well.

The bacon commonly eaten in Japan is usually pre-cooked and has a ham-like texture, rather than becoming crispy when cooked. Therefore, it may differ slightly from the bacon you are used to.

Using tender bacon allows you to enjoy the flavor and texture of asparagus even more. It offers a different experience compared to the crispy variety, so be sure to try this Japanese-style dish with tender bacon.

This dish is simple, yet it allows you to fully enjoy the natural flavors of each ingredient. The key to preparing it in the Japanese style is to cut the asparagus into bite-sized pieces before cooking.

Specifically, cut the asparagus in half or into thirds, then wrap each piece with half a slice of bacon. This method makes it easy to eat, giving the bacon a savory, juicy exterior while keeping the asparagus fresh and crisp inside.

Bacon wrapped asparagus is enjoyed worldwide, but small differences in ingredients and preparation can make a big difference. I hope you enjoy this Japanese-style version, which allows the flavors of the ingredients to shine through.

Ingredients

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Instructions

🕒 Total: 15 mins mins

Step 1
Trim the tough ends of the asparagus by about ⅔ inch (2 cm), then cut the stalks in half or into thirds.

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Step 2
Place two or three pieces of asparagus on a slice of bacon and roll it up. Secure the end of each bacon slice with a toothpick to keep it from falling apart. Repeat this process with all the asparagus and bacon.

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Step 3
Heat oil in a pan and sauté the bacon wrapped asparagus over medium heat. Once browned, flip them over and cook the other side.

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Step 4
Add sake to the pan, cover with a lid, and let it steam over low heat for a few minutes until the asparagus is tender.

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Step 5
Remove the lid and sprinkle black pepper over the bacon wrapped asparagus.

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To store

You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

In addition to bacon wrapped asparagus, there are several other popular bacon wrapped dishes in Japan, such as "bacon wrapped vegetables" and "bacon wrapped enoki mushrooms."

To make bacon wrapped vegetables, you can simply replace the asparagus with your favorite vegetables cut into sticks similar in shape to asparagus. In Japan, carrots, green beans, and potatoes are commonly used.

On the other hand, bacon wrapped enoki mushrooms offer a unique, crunchy texture combined with a distinctly Japanese flavor, making them a great choice—especially if you are looking for a more authentic Japanese taste. For more details, please refer to the linked page.

Both dishes are well-loved in Japan, so I'm sure you will enjoy them as well.